A home is an investment that will last until we are old and retired.

This is the reason why many homeowners place so much effort in home improvements: upon their retirement, they want to be able to look around their home and say that they built a good house. Or, should they ever decide to sell the house, they want to know that whatever they change will add to the value of the home.

With this in mind, here are five of the best home improvements that are really worth it.

Steel Doors

Doors are perhaps the least thought about fixture in the house. Often, we only opt for the wooden type because it’s easier to design them in a way that matches the interior and exterior qualities. But here’s the thing: depending on the type of wood, these doors often crack with little pressure and don’t offer a comforting level of security. Steel doors are sturdier and also aesthetically pleasing, so more and more homeowners are investing in them even though they are a little more expensive than wooden doors.

Wood Deck

One of the best ways to extend the floor space of the house is to have a wooden deck. This can be a place where you’ll have breakfast with the family or as additional space when hosting a gathering. Not only will the appeal of the house increase, so will its value!

Kitchen Renovation

Modern Kitchen, Subway Tiles,

At first, you might think that kitchen improvement will only benefit families with members who are good cooks, but the truth of the matter is that minor refining of the kitchen with neat cabinetry, new countertops, and aesthetic floor will appreciate the overall value of the house. You will also save a lot if you invest in energy-saving appliances.

Stone Wall Veneer

Unbeknownst to most people, one of the things that house buyers look into when searching for a house is a very pleasing street-facing façade. And one way to make a façade pleasing is to have a stone veneer instead of just regular walls. Don’t worry about not getting anything back from the expenses you add for this home improvement. According to studies, you are bound to get up to 95% of your invested money back for the veneer.

Double Glazed Windows

Double Glazed Windows

Last, but definitely not least, are double-glazed windows. If your current house is only single-paned, you might want to upgrade to the standard window with 2 panels. Windows with two (or more) glass panels are simply more energy-efficient because they better protect the house from extreme outside temperature. If you are worried about the expenses, don’t worry, because there are grants available. In fact, there are a lot of double glazing grants available to help pay for the costs. Not only will they help you pay for the windows, they also offer energy-saving features and maintenance services.

These five home investments do not only add to the overall appeal of the house, they also appreciate the general value, so you may want them over other improvements.